Kanagawa Prefectural Government Building (King)
The 'King' building offers historic charm and stunning Yokohama Bay views, accessible during rare public open days.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Rare access to interiors & rooftop
Kanagawa Prefectural Government Building (King)
Best Time
Rare access to interiors & rooftop
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The 'King' building offers historic charm and stunning Yokohama Bay views, accessible during rare public open days.
"The rooftop view was amazing, something you don't usually see."
📅 Check for Open Days
Public access is limited; look for announcements of special open days for interior tours and rooftop access.
📸 Rooftop Photo Ops
The rooftop offers incredible panoramic views of Yokohama Bay – a must-see for photographers!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Yokohama Bay Views
Rooftop
Soak in stunning vistas of Yokohama's vibrant bay, iconic buildings, and bustling port from the building's elevated vantage point.
Historic Interior & Architecture
Inside the building
Explore the 'King' building's classic architecture and historical ambiance, especially during special open days.
Former VIP Room Tour
Inside the building (during open days)
Step back in time with a guided tour of the elegantly preserved former VIP room, offering a glimpse into the past.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Accessing the 'King' Building
Rooftop Views & Special Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📅 Check for Open Days
Public access is limited; look for announcements of special open days for interior tours and rooftop access.
📸 Rooftop Photo Ops
The rooftop offers incredible panoramic views of Yokohama Bay – a must-see for photographers!
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun on Open Days
Open days often include family-friendly events and activities, making it a great outing for all ages.
🚶♂️ Explore Yokohama Nearby
The building is in Yokohama, a city with many attractions like Minato Mirai.
Tips
from all over the internet
📅 Check for Open Days
Public access is limited; look for announcements of special open days for interior tours and rooftop access.
📸 Rooftop Photo Ops
The rooftop offers incredible panoramic views of Yokohama Bay – a must-see for photographers!
👨👩👧👦 Family Fun on Open Days
Open days often include family-friendly events and activities, making it a great outing for all ages.
🚶♂️ Explore Yokohama Nearby
The building is in Yokohama, a city with many attractions like Minato Mirai.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the Kanagawa Prefectural Government Building, especially during its rare open days, for its stunning rooftop views of Yokohama Bay and its historic interior ambiance. The chance to explore areas like the former VIP room is a significant draw, offering a meaningful experience. However, access is limited, and it's primarily an administrative building, so planning around special events is crucial.
"This building is a Yokohama city hall! Basically tourists can’t get in the building. But I fortunately had a great chance to get in when they have a popes to public! The building itself is old looks it was built long time ago and have a history, so they have great atmosphere inside!! Especially I love the rooftop! You can see all around the Yokohama bay!! It’s beautiful!! And you can see famous buildings from here!! When you have a chance please try here!! Enjoy!!"
Erine Taguchi
"Also known as the "Tower of the King," it is the central building of the Kanagawa administration, complete with history and tradition."
O-MAL
"Big and nice and good office government"
Yumi Yamada
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The building is located in Yokohama, easily accessible via public transport. It's a short walk from major stations like Yokohama Station, which serves multiple train lines including the Tokaido, Yokosuka, and Shonan-Shinjuku lines, as well as the Tokyu Toyoko Line and Yokohama City Subway Blue Line.
While the building is an administrative center, dedicated public parking might be limited. It's generally recommended to use the extensive public transportation network in Yokohama.
Yes, Yokohama is conveniently located just south of Tokyo and is easily reachable by train. The journey typically takes around 30-40 minutes from central Tokyo stations.
The closest major station is Yokohama Station, a significant hub for various JR and private railway lines. From there, it's a walk or a short local bus ride to the building.
While not a primary tourist attraction, it's known for its architecture and the 'King' nickname. Its rooftop offers great views, and it's sometimes open to the public on special event days.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, the building is an administrative office and not open to the public for casual visits. However, during special 'open days,' entry might be free or require a nominal fee for specific events.
Regular office hours apply for administrative functions. For public access, especially to the rooftop or interior tours, you must check for announcements regarding special 'open days,' as these are infrequent.
The rooftop is typically accessible to the public only during designated 'open days' or special events. It offers fantastic views of Yokohama Bay.
There was a mention of renovation, so it's advisable to check for any current status or access restrictions before planning your visit.
The frequency of 'open days' varies. They are not a regular occurrence and are usually announced in advance by the Kanagawa Prefectural Government.
📸 📸 Photography
The rooftop provides the most iconic photo opportunities with panoramic views of Yokohama Bay and its landmarks. The exterior architecture itself is also photogenic.
Photography rules can vary, especially during special open days. It's best to check for any signage or ask staff on-site about restrictions, particularly in historical areas like the former VIP room.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for cityscape and bay photos. Midday can also be good for clear, bright views.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and around government buildings due to safety and privacy regulations. It's highly unlikely to be permitted.
The building itself, often referred to as the 'King' building, has a distinct architectural style. During open days, the historical elements within, like the former VIP room, are also noteworthy.
🎫 🏛️ History & Culture
Known as the 'King' building, it's a central administrative structure for Kanagawa Prefecture, possessing a significant history and traditional architectural elements.
While not explicitly mentioned for this building, Yokohama itself is a backdrop for anime like 'Bungo Stray Dogs,' and the city's modern skyline is often depicted.
The nickname 'King' likely refers to its prominent position as the central administrative building for the prefecture, symbolizing its importance and stature.
During special open days, various events are often held, which can include cultural displays or activities, particularly appealing to families.
Visiting during an open day can offer insights into the prefecture's administration and history, especially if tours of historical rooms are available.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧👦 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the 'King' Building: Beyond the Office
During these special access periods, visitors can explore areas not typically open to the public, such as the former VIP room, offering a tangible connection to the past. The rooftop is another major draw, providing unparalleled panoramic views of Yokohama Bay, the city's modern skyline, and the bustling port. This elevated vantage point is a highlight for many, offering a different perspective of this dynamic coastal city.
For those interested in the 'King' building, it's essential to stay informed about when these open days are scheduled. They are not a regular occurrence and are announced by the Kanagawa Prefectural Government. Planning a visit around one of these events will maximize your experience, allowing you to appreciate both the building's historical context and its stunning scenic surroundings.
Yokohama's Skyline and the 'King' Building's Role
From the rooftop of the 'King' building, visitors can witness the juxtaposition of Yokohama's historical port facilities and its contemporary architectural marvels. This elevated viewpoint offers a comprehensive panorama, allowing one to trace the city's development and appreciate its role as a major commercial and cultural hub. The building's strategic location provides an excellent vantage point to capture the essence of Yokohama's vibrant waterfront.
While the 'King' building itself is a point of interest, its value to visitors often lies in the context it provides for understanding Yokohama's urban fabric. Its accessibility, especially during open days, makes it a valuable stop for those looking to grasp the city's blend of history and modernity, all while enjoying spectacular views.
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